Anna Lynch's debut single "Wake Up" is not merely an initial release; it's a profound release of breath. Combining jazz-infused instrumentation with the warmth of pop and introspective lyrics, this emerging artist from Manchester creates a sonic reminder that it's acceptable to break, grow, and start anew.
When Anna Lynch sings, the world seems to soften, creating a sense of safety to embrace all emotions at once. Stepping into her solo chapter with "Wake Up," a stirring debut that blends jazz-inspired warmth with candid lyrics and softly commanding vocals, she showcases a sound that is uniquely hers: introspective, intricate, and perpetually inviting. Transitioning from her role in Manchester’s dynamic live music scene, Lynch draws on experiences from songwriting sessions at Pollard Yard to nighttime reflections on identity, womanhood, and healing, crafting music that doesn’t just convey a message—it listens.
In an interview with Atwood Magazine, Lynch shares insights into writing from a place of despair, the distinctive sonic elements that characterize her music, and the significance of thriving (and struggling) in the limelight while maintaining authenticity.
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:: stream/purchase Wake Up here ::
:: connect with Anna Lynch here ::
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**A CONVERSATION WITH ANNA LYNCH**
Atwood Magazine: "Wake Up" is such an impressive debut. What made this song the ideal choice to introduce yourself as a solo artist?
Anna Lynch: Thank you! I adore this song; I think it may have been the first we wrote and it felt perfect. Last year I hit rock bottom, and "Wake Up" represents the journey of awakening to your true self and potential. This song signifies a rebirth and self-love. It had to be released first, and I will always remember it as the starting point of this journey.
Having spent years in Manchester's music scene with various bands, how did it feel to embark on this solo project both emotionally and creatively?
Anna Lynch: Initially, it was scary, but it feels so right. I genuinely believe that not creating left a void within me, and now I feel deeply connected to my creativity. As a small artist, it’s challenging to envision my future, but what anchors me is the joy this brings and how fulfilling it is to create. The more I create, the more I want to continue. Writing is my source of happiness.
The song was birthed on a sunny summer day in a shipping container at Pollard Yard (a great aesthetic backstory). Can you take us back to that session with Rhys Jiang? What sparked the magic?
Anna Lynch: I love that question! It made me smile. Before that session, we met for coffee to discuss Rhys producing me, and I’m grateful I reached out. He has truly helped me discover my best self as an artist. The day was beautiful, and we started every session with a coffee – we walked to ‘Off The Press’ in Ancoats for our fix – then we dove into “Wake Up.” I don’t recall the exact timeline, but the chorus came to me so easily. Over the following months, we nurtured it into what you hear now. The magic was inherent in the song – it simply needed to be expressed. The atmosphere was calm and safe.
You’ve mentioned that this track is about “waking up to yourself” and embracing your complexities as a woman. Was there a particular moment in your life that inspired this lyric?
Anna Lynch: Last year, after reaching rock bottom, I had to turn inward. I needed to reassess how I spoke to myself and what I felt about myself—essentially, waking up to what was truly there. I learned to recognize the love and perception from others and aimed to adopt a kinder perspective towards myself.
"You can bloom and wither and still be beautiful." That line resonates deeply. How did you arrive at that sentiment, and what does it signify for you?
Anna Lynch: Similar to what I said before, hitting rock bottom can lead to both blooming and withering. One of my primary focuses is to cultivate unwavering self-worth that isn’t tied to achievements but exists amid the blooming and wilting. This line questions whether you can still love yourself during tough times.
Your sound beautifully integrates jazz elements with soul-pop influences. What attracted you to this unique blend, and did it come about naturally?
Anna Lynch: It somewhat developed organically. People have often pointed out my vocal "tone." I grew up enchanted by Amy Winehouse—her lyrics, her voice, her performances—all were magical influences. I've always gravitated towards the lower register of my voice, which feels natural and fitting.
You’ve looked up to artists like Laura Marling, Amy Winehouse, and Olivia Dean. What insights have you gained from them, both musically and as women in the industry?
Anna Lynch: I discovered Laura Marling later in her career, but after seeing her live
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Anna Lynch’s debut single “Wake Up” is more than just an initial release; it's a complete release of breath. Blending jazz-infused instrumentation with a pop-infused warmth and introspective lyrics, the Manchester-based artist creates an auditory reminder that it's okay to fall apart, grow, and start anew.